The ‘Freedom Tree’ named Croatian Tree of the Year

Freedom Tree on Rab Island (Photo credit: David Kabalin/Društvo prijatelja Raba – 1895)

The Croatian Tree of the Year 2024, which will represent the county in the European award, has been named.

This year, five imposing trees competed for the title of Croatian Tree of the Year 2024 with the ‘Freedom Tree’ on the island of Rab declared the winner after receiving the highest number of votes.

Located on Pjaceta in Rab, also known as the Square of Freedom, this holm oak was planted on 23 April 1921 to mark the departure of the Italian military.

This tree, native to the island of Rab, has become an essential part of the local landscape and cultural heritage. For generations, residents of Rab have gathered under its branches, making it a central part of both personal and collective memory.

Many local families still pass down the story of ancestors who helped plant it, and just three years ago, the community celebrated the tree’s 100th anniversary with a grand event.

Freedom Tree on Rab Island (Photo credit: David Kabalin/Društvo prijatelja Raba – 1895)

Over the years, its canopy has grown to shelter the entire square.

As the national winner for 2024, the Freedom Tree will now represent Croatia in the European Tree of the Year 2025 competition, where it will stand alongside winners from other participating nations.

The Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County, acting as the national coordinator for the Tree of the Year competition on behalf of the Republic of Croatia, organised and conducted the 2024 Croatian Tree of the Year contest.